Men used to have shorter life spans than women, according to statistics that seemed unchanging for many decades. But lately the gap started to close, and at least part of the male population is now making headways in terms of healthy aging and longevity.

The fact is we are living longer and not saving. And most of us have no idea how much to save in order to have a care-free retirement that reflects our lifestyle needs. Recent research suggests that a nest egg of $750,000 is required.

Studies on longevity in connection with diet and lifestyle were undertaken as early as the 16th century. Two relatively recent studies tested independently from each other the impact of calorie restriction on health and mortality in rhesus monkeys. Both came up with opposite results.

One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found evidence that vegetarians have a slightly better chance at living longer than omnivores. So, should we all consider becoming vegetarians for the sake of a longer life? Not necessarily.